minute, after each patient, and at the end of the workday for 30 seconds following BUMEDINST 6600.10.
THREE-WAY SYRINGES - Each dental unit has at least one 3-way syringe that provides a stream of (1) air, (2) water, or (3) a combination spray of air and water. Many of the new syringes have a quick disconnect that allows the syringe tip to be changed for each patient and is autoclavable. The water temperature control, if equipped, on the dental unit, can be adjusted to keep the temperature of the water at approximately 130°F.
The dental light (fig. 11-7) illuminates the patient's mouth and treatment area. It may be on a ceiling track or mounted to the DDS. The light should be properly positioned 30-36 inches from the patient's face. Most dental lights mounted to the DDS consist of three major assemblies: the transformer and rigid arm assembly, flex arm assembly, and the light head assembly. The intensity switch located on the transformer housing is used to set the intensity of the light to low, medium, or high settings.
The dental light head rotates on three different axes. It can rotate as much as 180° horizontally, 125° vertically, and 45° diagonally from either side.
To perform a daily operational check on the dental light.
Turn light on.
Move light ensuring a free full range of motion.
Light should not drift. If drifting is discovered, initiate a repair request
Often, at the most inconvenient time, the bulb in the dental light burns out. To avoid further delays, you need to know how to quickly and properly replace the bulb. Use the following steps to change a bulb:
Turn the light switch to the off position and allow the bulb to cool.
Release the fastening devices on the light shield and move the shield aside.
Use a gauze pad or cloth to protect your fingers when removing the bulb. Very carefully pull the old bulb from the socket and discard it.
Most units have a spare bulb compartment on the light assembly. Open the wrapper of the new bulb to expose the bulb pins, but do not remove the bulb from the wrapper.
Use the wrapper to protect the bulb while installing it. This is necessary because finger oils limit bulb life and can affect light performance.
Figure 11-7. - Dental light.
Continue Reading